Looking for a new job can be an arduous, protracted and hard task. You need to apply yourself and it takes a great deal of effort, concentration and focus. Regardless of your experience, there is a trend that professionals of all backgrounds fall into the same traps and make the same mistakes which inevitably makes finding the perfect role far more difficult than it should be. However, if you follow these relatively simple steps, it should enable you to search with a smile!
1. Always have a plan
First and foremost, it is essential to carefully map out a plan with target companies that interest you and identify contacts in those organizations and then choosing a specific career path with positions you’re qualified for is the right way to increase your odds of getting hired. Sporadically, sending your CV out on a speculative basis will most likely lead you to dead ends. So, if you manage to make lasting, meaningful connections and manage to have a clear objective this will result in fruitful returns.
2. Tailor your CV accordingly
I would strongly urge you to modify your CV for each. Customizing it for each position by comparing the relevant keywords in the job specification to those in your CV is crucial and a must. This will greatly simplify the process for any Line Manager or Recruiter who will be able to match your skills to the skills they are looking for and increase your chance of an initial interview.
3. Embrace Social Media
From LinkedIn to Twitter, your connections should know that you’re looking for a new job unless confidentiality is an issue. The more people that you make aware of your motivations, the better chance you have to make connections with people and network with their connections. It’s amazing who knows who and by what means.
If your LinkedIn profile isn’t updated, recruiters may think you’re still employed and could pass you by. Don’t be shy, that’s why LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter are called social networks, so use them to the fullest potential!
4. Fail to prepare, prepare to fail
Being prepared for interviews is one of the most important things you can do to help your job search. Research the company you’re interviewing at, learn about the person conducting the interview if you can, practice tough interview questions and be able to speak about your experience clearly and confidently.
5. Follow up
Whether it be an interview or a networking meeting, make sure to follow up with a simple email or phone call to thank the individual for their time. This will allow them to remember you and create the opportunity for another meeting in the future. Keep the door open and find ways to be helpful to everyone in your network.
Happy Hunting!
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